Dried arrangements and holiday wreaths may contain invasive plant species, such as Oriental bittersweet (found throughout the Eastern and Great Lakes states) and multiflora rose (found through the Eastern and Midwest U.S., Colorado, California and Oregon). When these arrangements hang outside, wind and birds foraging for food can carry away berries and seeds, which may re-sprout in other areas in the spring and cause environmental damage. Invasive plants can take over open fields, wetlands, forests and even your own backyard. Oriental bittersweet is capable of killing mature trees!
Viewer Tip: There are many beautiful, natural decorations that are safe for the environment. Consider using pinecones, winterberry, American holly, pine or spruce cuttings, or cranberries for decorations.
Photos and info about Oriental bittersweet: http://www.nps.gov/plants/alien/fact/ceor1.htm
Photos and info about multiflora rose: http://www.nps.gov/plants/ALIEN/fact/romu1.htm
Seasons: Fall, Winter
(Sources: New England Wildflower Society, Framingham, MA. www.newenglandwild.org; National Park Service, Plant
Conservation Alliance Alien Plant Working Group, http://www.nps.gov/plants/alien/)
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